The
most important thing to remember is that when you're online in
any kind of public forum, you're out in public and everyone can
read whatever you post. You should never post anything on the
Internet that you wouldn't want known to the public at large.
You should also remember that people you meet in cyberspace
might not be who they seem to be.

Keep
Your Identity Private

If
you're in any type of public forum, avoid giving out your full
name, your mailing address, your telephone number, the name of
your school, or any other information that could help someone
determine your actual identity. The same applies for your family
and friends. Never reveal anything about other people that could
possibly get them into trouble.

Never
Get Together With Someone You "Meet" Online

The
biggest danger to your safety is if you get together with
someone you "meet" online. Remember, you never know
for certain if people you meet online are who they say they are.
If you do feel it's appropriate to meet with someone, discuss it
with your parents and never go to the meeting by yourself.
Arrange to meet in a public place, like a coffee shop or mall
that you (not just the other person) are familiar and
comfortable with, and never go alone. The safest procedure is to
have your parents talk with the parents of the other person and
for both of you to bring your parents along on the first
meeting.

Never
Respond to E-mail, Chat Comments, or Newsgroup Messages That Are
Hostile, Belligerent, Inappropriate, Or In Any Way Make You Feel
Uncomfortable

It
isn't your fault if you get a message that is mean or in any way
makes you feel uncomfortable. If you get such a message, don't
respond. Instead, show it to your parents or a trusted adult to
see if there is any thing you can do to make it stop. Sending a
response just encourages the person.

Talk
with Your Parents About Their Expectations and Ground Rules for
Going Online

It's
important that you and your parents are on the same channel when
it comes to your online activities. This includes when you can
go online, how long you can stay online, and what activities you
can do online. Communicating with your parents doesn't mean that
you have to give up your privacy. It just means that you come to
an agreement based on a mutual trust and understanding. While
you're at it, perhaps you can help your parents better
understand the Internet, what it can be used for, and how it is
helpful for teens.